Easy Dumpling Soup

When the chill of winter sets in or when you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying, few dishes deliver like a bowl of dumpling soup. This recipe takes the humble dumpling and elevates it into a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be enjoying a steaming bowl of dumpling soup in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp minced, fresh ginger
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 bunch green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 large carrots, julienned (or 1 cup if using pre-cut)
• 1.5 lb bag frozen dumplings (potstickers or mini potstickers)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, packed
• Sea salt, to taste
• 1 tsp sesame seeds, optional

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Pour in chicken stock and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add sliced green onions and julienned carrots to the pot. Allow them to cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Gently add frozen dumplings to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions or until the dumplings are heated through, typically 5-7 minutes.
5. Once the dumplings are cooked, add fresh spinach to the pot. Stir until the spinach wilts, which should only take a minute or two.
6. Taste the soup and season with sea salt as needed. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the soup for added flavor and texture.
7. Ladle the dumpling soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting warmth and flavors!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the dumplings as they cook, as overcooking can lead to mushy textures. Adjust cooking time based on the type and size of dumplings you’re using.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock and use vegetable dumplings for a delicious vegetarian version of this soup.
• Spice It Up: Add a kick of heat by incorporating sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Protein Boost: For extra protein, add diced tofu or shredded cooked chicken to the soup along with the dumplings.
• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on personal preference. Bok choy, mushrooms, or bell peppers would all be excellent additions.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the dumplings with keto-friendly dumplings made from almond flour or coconut flour. You can also reduce the carrots or omit them altogether to lower the carb count.
• Low-Carb Option: Similarly, for a lower-carb version, reduce the number of dumplings used and load up on low-carb vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cauliflower.

Easy Dumpling Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful broth, tender dumplings, and nutritious vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to warm you up on a chilly day, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity. So gather your ingredients and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use fresh dumplings instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh dumplings if you have them available. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh dumplings may cook faster than frozen ones.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time? While this soup is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broth and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth, add the dumplings and spinach, and cook until heated through.

3. How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator? Leftover dumpling soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

4. Can I freeze this soup? While you can freeze dumpling soup, keep in mind that the texture of the dumplings may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If freezing, omit the spinach, as it can become mushy when thawed. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding fresh spinach if desired.

5. Can I make this soup gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring the dumplings are gluten-free as well. Check the labels of pre-made dumplings or make your own gluten-free dumplings using rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

6. How can I make the soup more filling? To make the soup more filling, you can add additional protein such as tofu, shredded chicken, or cooked shrimp. These additions will not only add substance to the soup but also boost its nutritional value.

7. Can I use other types of broth instead of chicken stock? Certainly! Feel free to use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even mushroom broth for a different flavor profile. Adjust seasoning as needed based on the type of broth you choose.